Despite being legal and available on prescription for eligible patients, medical cannabis in the UK is still surrounded by stigma and misinformation.
These myths not only discourage people from exploring treatment but can also lead to misunderstandings about what medical cannabis really is.
At Medibiss, we believe in clarity, honesty, and science. Let’s break down some of the most common myths, and replace them with the facts.
Myth 1: “Medical cannabis is just street cannabis in a jar.”
The truth:
Medical cannabis is not the same as cannabis bought illegally. It is cultivated, processed, and tested under strict medical and pharmaceutical standards.
Every prescription product is grown in controlled environments, free from contaminants, and meets quality assurance guidelines.
Patients can be prescribed different strains or formulations depending on their symptoms, with precise ratios of cannabinoids like THC and CBD, something you simply don’t get from unregulated sources.
Myth 2: “It’s only for people who want to get high.”
The truth:
Many medical cannabis prescriptions contain little to no THC, the psychoactive compound that produces a “high.”
Instead, they may be CBD-dominant or balanced, targeting symptoms such as chronic pain, muscle spasticity, or sleep issues without impairing mental clarity.
When THC is prescribed, it’s for a therapeutic reason, in carefully controlled doses tailored to the patient’s needs.
Myth 3: “It’s not legal in the UK.”
The truth:
Medical cannabis has been legal in the UK since November 2018, when specialist doctors were given the authority to prescribe cannabis-based products for medicinal use.
While recreational cannabis remains illegal, patients with qualifying conditions can access prescription cannabis legally through registered prescribers, such as the clinicians Medibiss works with.
Myth 4: “There’s no real medical evidence behind it.”
The truth:
Research into cannabis-based medicines is growing every year. Studies have shown potential benefits in managing chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, anxiety, PTSD, and more.
The UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has already approved specific cannabis-based medicines for certain conditions, and ongoing clinical trials continue to expand the evidence base.
Myth 5: “It’s a last resort treatment for people who’ve tried everything else.”
The truth:
While many patients are prescribed medical cannabis after other treatments haven’t worked, that doesn’t mean it should be dismissed until all else fails.
For certain conditions, it can be considered earlier in a treatment plan, especially when the risks of traditional medications outweigh the benefits.
The key is having an open conversation with a qualified prescriber who can assess whether medical cannabis is appropriate for your situation.
Moving Beyond the Myths
In 2025, medical cannabis is no longer a fringe treatment. It’s a regulated, doctor-led option that has already helped thousands of patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
If you’re considering it, don’t let misinformation hold you back. At Medibiss, we offer free eligibility checks, confidential consultations, and access to the highest-quality cannabis-based medicines, without the stigma.
Find out if you qualify today and take the first step towards informed, effective care.
